2) The nurse is counseling a woman about the consumption of herbal supplements during pregnancy. Which statement is appropriate for the nurse to make?

Question

a. It is safe to ingest herbal supplements during pregnancy since they are natural substances
b. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has established guidelines about the safety of herbal use during pregnancy
c. It is important that you quit taking any botanical, vitamin, or mineral supplements during your pregnancy, but you can resume taking them after the baby is born
d. Dietary supplements during pregnancy have not been well researched so it is important to discuss ingestion of specific supplements with your healthcare provider

Answer 1

d. Dietary supplements during pregnancy have not been well researched so it is important to discuss ingestion of specific supplements with your healthcare provider


The use of dietary supplements during pregnancy is not well studied. Herbs and other botanicals especially have not been well researched regarding safety. Some botanical supplements are characterized as uterine stimulants or lead to altered blood clotting, which are dangerous complications during pregnancy, while others can cause drug interactions or are teratogens or mutagens. The client the supplements with the healthcare provider because herbal supplements are not currently regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Although herbal supplements are natural substances, many may be considered harmful to consume during pregnancy. The client should collaborate with the nurse to help determine which dietary supplements are safe versus harmful for the individual. A consultation with the health-care provider is needed to determine if the supplements may be continued during the pregnancy.